I am seriously considering getting my dental implants done at a Clear Choice Dental Implant Center. But, after much research, I’m starting to second guess myself. My general feeling is that in the past there were some concerns from reputable implant dentists about how they provide treatment. However, my main question is do you think things have improved in the last couple years? I am not finding as many concerns recently. So, I’m hoping you will be candid and give me your honest feedback.
-Thomas in New York
Thomas,
Thank you for reaching out. It is encouraging that it sounds like you are doing your due diligence and taking the time to determine if Clear Choice is the right choice for you. Far too many people move forward without taking this important step. So for starters, kudos to you for reaching out and doing your own research.
Overall, it is relatively common that the sales philosophy of Clear Choice has remained consistent over the years. That said, each location in varying states will differ somewhat. But Clear Choice Dental Centers as a whole follow a similar philosophy when it comes to dental implants.
Most of the centers use highly-qualified surgeons and prosthodontists. Their prices tend to be higher for that reason and they have a reputation for high pressure in their sales tactics. Generally speaking, they recommend extracting all the teeth, whereas an independent implant dentist may opt to salvage as many natural teeth as possible. Then, when they get you onboard to remove the remaining teeth, they will recommend using the all-on-4 dental implants procedure.
Now, you haven’t shared what your individual treatment plan is with your local Clear Choice center. But maybe you can determine if these comments resonate with your personal experience or not.
Dentistry is not a one-size-fits-all industry. Every case is different and most implant dentists will customize their approach for the individual patient. But, it seems like the existing Clear Choice approach works well for them and they do a lot of business.
The absolute best thing you can do for yourself is to get a second opinion. As a general rule of thumb, whenever you have a major dental procedure, it is wise to get another opinion. Dentists have different opinions and perspectives. So when it comes to such an important and expensive procedure like dental implants, you will want to compare the dentists by who you can trust versus what the price tag ends up being.
If you decide to get a second opinion, try to find a dentist with credentials with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Or another reputable organization is the American Board of Oral Implantology. If an implant dentist is affiliated with either or both of these organizations, that is a promising sign.
Then, after you get a second opinion, if you feel confident that Clear Choice is going to provide you with the best care, then there is nothing wrong with that. You have done your due diligence and can be confident in your decision. But, I have a hunch that if you genuinely find a local surgeon or implant dentist who is affiliated with one of these prestigious organizations, you may end up happier with their fees and the overall treatment plan. You’ve asked for an upfront, honest opinion and based on my experience, there you have it.
In closing, here’s another thing to think about. They have had some negative public relations in years past. For example, I have been made aware of negative Clear Choice experiences by multiple patients that have had issues with their care. But, there aren’t as many of those out there anymore in the public and I have to wonder if patients at some of these locations are required to sign something that may deter them from sharing anything negative.
It sure makes me wonder. Anyway, hopefully this will be helpful to you as you consider next steps. There is never anything wrong with seeking a second opinion, which I cannot stress enough.
Thank you for your question.
This post is sponsored by Petaluma implant dentist Dr. Rick Lane.